On the Dialectics of Social Theory and Action: A Synthesis of Six Models of Community Engagement

Authors

Drew Hyman, Pennsylvania State University

Abstract

Two dominant theoretical perspectives--systems theory and conflict theory--can be seen to underlie major approaches to community intervention. This paper presents a conceptual linkage between models of intervention for planning and organizing as developed by Rothman and elaborated by Stockdale and major sociological theories of society. Two additional models are presented to address issues of management and administration. The six models are integrated into a typology which integrates the conflict and consensus theories of society in relation to the The result is a synthesis of six models for community engagement which is rooted in dialectically opposed theories of society, and which addresses the major functions of any system of organization--planning, organizing/implementation, and management.

Recommended Citation

Hyman, Drew (1986) "On the Dialectics of Social Theory and Action: A Synthesis of Six Models of Community Engagement," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 13: Iss. 2, Article 6.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.1750
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol13/iss2/6